The concept of offsetting environmentally damaging practices, like emitting carbon dioxide, has met with mixed reviews.   But the success of the voluntary offset market in the United States, coupled with the strong compliance market overseas, demonstrates that many believe in the positive effects of carbon offsets .   Fueled by offset dollars, projects that reduce or avoid CO2 emissions have been popping up steadily.   However, an even more controversial form of offsetting...

  Dry cleaning is known to use harsh chemicals, lots of water, and produce waste in the form of disposable bags and hangers.   So what is the industry doing to go green?   The National Cleaners Association recently debuted their Green Cleaning Council , which created a rating system for environmentally friendly dry cleaning businesses.   Cleaners can earn ratings of 1 to 5 leaves for taking actions like recycling hangers, using non-toxic or biodegradable cleaning che...